Project Graduation to host Spring Fun Run on Sunday, March 15 at Torres Park as fundraiser for its annual alcohol-free party for Chalmette High seniors after graduation

There’s the pomp and circumstance that go with a high school graduation. But there is also the yearning of graduates to celebrate, and maybe too hard, by drinking or doing drugs and driving somewhere, risking their lives and others on the road.

That’s why the St. Bernard Coalition for Project Graduation hosts an alcohol-free nightlong party at the Sports Hall of Fame building in Val Riess Park for Chalmette High seniors directly after their graduation, which is Thursday, May 14. This will be the 22nd year for such a celebration.

And on Sunday, March 15 at Torres Park in Chalmette, Project Graduation is holding the Spring Fun Run as its only fundraiser for the party and also to make the community aware it needs volunteers and support to make the 22nd year possible.

The walk/run will take place at 9 a.m. and registration beforehand is $10 for adults and $5 for students. A special attraction following the run is a tug-o-war challenge between St. Bernard’s finest – the Sheriff’s Office vs. the Fire Department.

“We strive to host an exciting drug-free and alcohol-free event for our graduates on their big night,’’ project Graduation officials said. “This is their last chance to come together as the Class of 2015 and just be kids with games, laughs, music, food, and prizes. These graduates work hard to receive their diploma. They deserve an exciting carefree night.’’

Along with games and activities, there will be a raffle of more than gifts. As in the past, all the great prizes throughout the evening celebration will be made possible through donations from generous people.

Project Graduation is funded entirely through donations and fundraising activities and welcome cash donations as well as checks, gift certificates and merchandise. All donations are tax deductible. “We hope you will consider supporting our efforts.”

The St. Bernard Coalition for Project Graduation is an all volunteer, non-profit organization chartered by the state of Louisiana and recognized as a (501) C 3, group by the Internal Revenue Service.

If you want to schedule a pick-up of a donation, would like to volunteer or if you have any other questions about Project Graduation, please call Brenda Simpson, chairperson; at (504) 682-0753 or Paula St. Angelo at (504) 400-9298.

For your convenience, checks and gift certificates may be mailed to:
Project Graduation.
P.O. Box 2251,
Chalmette, La., 70044.

Checks should be payable to Project Graduation.
Sheriff James Pohlmann said he supports Project Graduation and the effort it makes to procide an alcohol-free and drug-free party for graduating seniors. The Sheriff’s Office has a presence at the party and some deputies serve as volunteers.

The sheriff said he encourages seniors to look for safe ways to have their fun and create good memories of their final days in high school and parents should make clear to them they don’t want their children drinking alcohol and driving.

“Sadly, alcohol consumption leading to car crashes are one of the main causes of death and injury among teenagers,’’ Sheriff Pohlmann said.

“We all want you to have fun,’’ the sheriff said.“ But don’t let a mistake you make while celebrating your graduation cause you to regret it for the rest of your life.’’
During prom and graduation season in April, May and June, one-third of the alcohol-related accidents involving teens each year occur during those three months, the sheriff said.

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Beginning March 2, all citations issued by SBSO can be paid online at the Sheriff’s Office at sbso.org as well as at the sheriff’s annex building up to 5 working days before the court date

Beginning on Monday, March 2, all citations issued by the Sheriff’s Office can be paid online at the Sheriff’s Office web site at sbso.org as well as at the sheriff’s annex building behind the Parish Courthouse up to five working days before the court date.

Sheriff James Pohlmann said the change will make it more convenient for those paying fines for citations.

But he said citations issued by other enforcement agencies, including State Police and the state Wildlife and Fisheries Department, can only be paid on the second-floor of the Sheriff’s Office annex at No. 2 Courthouse Square behind the Parish Courthouse in Chalmette.

The web site will indicate a link to use in order to pay fines for citations.

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Sheriff’s Office arrests man and a woman for attempted murder in a supermarket parking lot shooting incident in which no one was reported injured; Second man sought as a person of interest

Christoff Williams, held in New Orleans and will be booked in St. Bernard with attempted murder and illegal discharge of a firearm.

Unknown man involved in shooting and is sought for questioning. Anyone with information shoulkd call the Sheriff’s Office or Crimestoppers.

The St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a man and a woman for attempted murder in a shooting incident in the parking lot of a Chalmette supermarket early Monday, Feb. 23, in which no one was reported injured, Sheriff James Pohlmann said.

Also, a second man involved in the incident is being sought as a person of interest whom authorities want to talk to, Sheriff Pohlmann said.

Christoff Williams, 35, and Dimesha Ramsey, 27, both of 7530 Pine Ridge Drive, New Orleans, were arrested Wednesday evening and were booked with attempted second-degree murder and illegal discharge of a firearm from a vehicle, Sheriff Pohlmann said.

Williams was arrested at his home with the assistance of New Orleans police and was taken to Orleans Parish Prison and later transferred to St. Bernard Parish Prison for booking, the sheriff said.

Ramsey surrendered in St. Bernard Parish to sheriff’s detectives and was booked into the St. Bernard Prison.

No bond has been set for Williams pending an appearance before a judge. Ramsey is being held in lieu of $200,000 bond set Thursday morning.

Two handguns believed used in the 2 a.m. shooting incident in the parking lot of a Chalmette supermarket were recovered at the home of Williams and Ramsey, as well as an assault rifle and ammunition, Sheriff Pohlmann said.

Williams and Ramsey acknowledged firing handguns in the incident but claimed self-defense.

Several gunshots were fired in the parking lot after two black men – one of them Williams – apparently exchanged words inside the store, the sheriff said. Witnesses said they couldn’t tell what they were arguing about. Ramsey was with Williams.

The unknown man was bearded and wore a large square-faced watch or band on his left wrist.

Anyone with information about the identity of the unknown man should call the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office at (504) 271-2501 or Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111.

Several spent casings were found in the parking lot and video surveillance indicated the couple entered a white four-door Nissan Titan pick-up truck while the unknown man entered a grey Honda Crossover, Sheriff Pohlmann said.

As the Honda began to leave the parking lot and approached the Nissan, the driver’s side door opened on the Nissan and shots were fired in the direction of the Honda, Sheriff Pohlmann said.

Afterward, the sedan left going west on Judge Perez Drive and the Titan was seen going east on Judge Perez Drive.

Sheriff’s detectives developed information which led to Williams and Ramsey, both of whom have previous arrests.

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Felon arrested with crack cocaine and a gun; three others arrested for discharging firearms in two incidents; No one was shot

Derrin Clark	Don Ebanks
Leon Brock	Samuel Owens Jr.

A felon was arrested with crack cocaine and a gun and in two separate incidents a total of three men were booked with illegally discharging firearms but no one was shot, Sheriff James Pohlmann said.

Leon Brock, 43, 5417 Second St., Chalmette, was arrested early Feb. 21 after a traffic stop in Arabi. Brock, who had a previous conviction for first-degree robbery, was found to have a handgun in his vehicle as well as a bag with just over a gram of crack cocaine and two prescription pills.

Brock was booked with being a felon in illegal possession of a firearm, with possession of cocaine, possession of the pills and having a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance.

Brock is being held in St. Bernard Parish Prison in lieu of bond set at $55,250.

Also arrested early Feb. 21 were two men after reports were received of shots being fired near a canal in Violet.

Sheriff’s deputies found Derrin Clark, 25, of Slidell holding a handgun and arrested Don Ebanks, 25, 3416 Shannon Drive, Violet, after a foot chase. Several spent rounds were found in the area.

Ebanks and Clark were both booked with illegal discharge of a weapon and Ebanks was also booked with resisting an officer.

Ebanks is being held in Parish Prison in lieu of $6,000 bond and Clark has been released on bond.

In a separate shooting incident the night of Feb. 17, Samuel J. Owens Jr., 26, 3004 Judy Drive, Meraux, was arrested at that address after a fight with relatives in which Owens discharged a shotgun in the home.

Owens was booked with aggravated assault with a firearm, illegal discharge of a firearm, simple battery, domestic battery and disturbing the peace.

Owens is being held in St. Bernard Parish Prison in lieu opf bond set at $70,750.

No one was shot in the two cases of weapons discharged but a relative at the Owens residence was treated for abrasions.

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Moped Driver Killed in Crash in St. Bernard Parish

St. Bernard Parish – On Thursday, February 12, 2015 at approximately 2:45 pm, Louisiana State Police Troop B investigated a fatal crash on LA 300 at Deborah Drive in St. Bernard Parish. The crash claimed the life of 33 year-old Joshua Drakain of St. Bernard, LA.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Drakain was operating a 2013 Taoi Moped east on LA 300 approaching the intersection with Deborah Drive. A 2001 Chevrolet Astro Van, operated by Joel Edward (age 29) of St. Bernard, LA, was traveling north on Deborah Drive. The Chevrolet turned right onto LA 300 in the path of the Moped. The Moped struck the rear of the Chevrolet and Drakain was ejected from the Moped. Drakain was transported to the Interim LSU Hospital Level 1 Trauma Center where he was pronounced dead.

Edward submitted to a breath test and no detectable alcohol was found and toxicology results on his blood are pending. Impairment is not suspected on Drakain however, toxicology results are pending an autopsy. Drakain was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The crash remains under investigation and criminal charges are pending.

The Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists to safely “share the road” with motorcycles and to be extra alert to help keep motorcyclists safe. Following crashes, motorists often report difficulty in accurately judging the speed, size, and proximity of an approaching smaller vehicle specifically motorcycles. Troopers urge the public to remain vigilant while driving, never drive while fatigued or impaired, and avoid distracting activities, especially the temptations of electronic devices that can substantially divert a driver’s attention away from the road. In addition, riders should follow these safety guidelines to increase awareness and have a safe riding experience.

Be visible:

• Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time.
• Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
• Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
• Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have.
• Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping.
• If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.

Dress for safety:

• Wear a quality helmet and eye protection.
• Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet.
• Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
• Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
• Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear.

 

Apply effective mental strategies:

• Constantly search the road for changing conditions. Be aware of other traffic, road surfaces and debris.
• Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions.
• Give other motorists time and space to respond to you.
• Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.
• Watch for turning vehicles.
• Signal your next move in advance.
• Avoid weaving between lanes.
• Don’t ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Know and follow the rules of the road and stick to the speed limit.
• RIDE LIKE YOU ARE INVISIBLE TO OTHER MOTORISTS!!!!

 

Know your bike and how to use it:

• Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces.
• Get formal training and take refresher courses:

The Louisiana State Police offers a civilian Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Course. The department offers both a Basic Motorcycle Rider Course and an Advanced Rider Course. More information can be found at www.LSP.org under “Training” or you can call 225-925-6113 ext 224.

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Chalmette Elementary school’s Mardi Gras ball at Chalmette High honored first-responders as “Our American Heroes’’

Students, from left, Layla Serpas, Kylee Schallenberg and Nathan Schallenberg prepare to lead a procession with a sign singalling the theme of the Mardi Gras ball: “Chalmette Elementary Salutes Our American Heroes.”	From left are Parish Council member Ray Lauga Jr.,, Sheriff James Pohlmann, Lt. Robert Broadhead and Assistant Fire Chief Glenn Ellis.
Students sing and dance as part of the pageant.	Some of the first-responders honored at the ball.

Queen Alaina Francingues and King Taj Lewis,

School Principal Liz Winslow, dressed as Uncle Sam. with Coroner Dr. Bryan Bertucci.

It was like other Mardi Gras balls, with decorations and a fancy look, a royal court and plenty of females in pretty dresses and males in tuxedoes and suits.

But the king, queen and dukes and maids were all students of Chalmette Elementary School, holding its 5th annual Mardi Gras ball at the Chalmette High gym.

And it had a special theme: “Chalmette Elementary Salutes Our American Heroes,’’ the first-responders of St. Bernard Parish.

Sheriff James Pohlmann, Assistant Fire Chief Glenn Ellis and numerous sheriff’s deputies, firefighters. emergency medical technicians and doctors of the parish were honored guests.

“We truly appreciate you,’’ Chalmette Elementary Principal Liz Winslow told the honored group, who lined two sides of the gym as students and relatives filled the stands.
Some 60 students at the school were introduced as king, queen and the royal court of dukes and maids. Taj Lewis reigned as king, while Alaina Francingues was queen.

Winslow, decked out in an Uncle Sam outfit, said school secretary Shirley Serigne spearheads the annual ball.

She added that the theme of honoring American heroes was chosen as a means “of combining the fun of Mardi Gras with education and teaching children about the people who serve and protect us.’’

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Sheriff’s Office has set of keys found on the Knights of Nemesis Mardi Gras parade route in Chalmette; Call (504) 271-2501 to claim them

Feb. 12 – The Sheriff’s Office has a set of keys found on the Knights of Nemesis Mardi Gras parade route in Chalmette on Saturday, Feb, 7, and is trying to locate the owner, Sheriff James Pohlmann said.

Several keys on a blue, metal chain were found on the parade route and turned over to the Sheriff’s Office.

The owner can call the Communications Division at (504) 271-2501 to claim them.

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Car burglar caught in the act by owner, who chased and confronted him as deputies arrived to make the arrest

A car burglar was caught in the act by the vehicle owner, who with a friend chased and confronted the man as sheriff’s deputies arrived to make the arrest, Sheriff James Pohlmann said.

Frank Molinario, 37, 404 E, D’Amour St., Chalmette, was booked with simple burglary and possession of stolen things after an incident that happened on West Beauregard Street in Chalmette about 3:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, the sheriff said.

Molinario is being held in St. Bernard Parish Prison in lieu of bond set at $20,500.

The owner of the vehicle involved caught Molinario coming out of the vehicle, wearing a hat taken from the car and with clothing taken from the vehicle on top of the car.

When confronted, the suspect ran away, chased by the owner and a friend of his and they caught Molinario at Buffon and East Grand Hommes streets and were fighting with him when deputies arrived to make the arrest, the sheriff said.

When arrested, Molinario had cash, two watches and other items on him stolen from the car.

The victim’s stolen property was returned to him.

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Sheriff’s Office seeking applications from residents interested in a career in law enforcement and to help their community

St. Bernard Parish residents interested in a career in law enforcement should consider applying for employment with the Sheriff’s Office, which is now accepting applications for entry level positions and from those with experience with another law enforcement agency.

“We are looking for applicants for our Corrections Division and Communications Division but also with the Patrol Division for those with past patrol experience with a law enforcement agency,’’ Sheriff James Pohlmann said.
The starting salary is $30,600 a year.

Benefits include health care and a pension.
To qualify for a position with the Sheriff’s Office an applicant:
– Must live in St. Bernard Parish.
– Be able to pass a background check and a drug screen, which would be done on all applicants.
– Be at least 21 years old.
– Have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED.

Applicants can pick up an application Monday through Friday at the Sheriff’s Office Annex Building (2nd floor) at #2 Courthouse Square in Chalmette.

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Sheriff’s Office participates in the Knights of Nemesis, which paraded in Chalmette for the 10th year

The Sheriff’s Office mobile command post led the Knights of Nemesis parade on Feb, 7 and a deputy inside sent out parade location updates on the Sheriff;s Office Facebook page.	McGruff the Crime Dog, portrayed by Greer Cuccia of the Sheriff’s Office, was among the department’s units in the parade.
Sheriff James Pohlmann waves to the crowd.	Spectators wave their arms fo throws a float approaches.

Beads and shouts of “Throw me something’’ filled the air on Saturday, Feb. 7 as the Knights of Nemesis paraded in Chalmette in near perfect weather, with the Sheriff’s Office playing an integral role.

It was the 10th year of parading for Nemesis, which started the year after Hurricane Katrina.

Sheriff James Pohlmann rode in the parade, as well as several units from the Sheriff’s Office, including the mobile command post, instructors from the D.A.R.E. anti drug program and McGruff the Crime Dog, portrayed by Greer Cuccia of the Sheriff’s Office.

There were no major incidents during the parade.

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